NAF to expand cash assistance, training programs for low-income families

AMMAN — The Ministry of Government Communication convened a meeting on Wednesday with media representatives as part of the Government Communication Forum, focusing on the National Aid Fund’s (NAF) efforts to economically empower beneficiary families.

The meeting, attended by NAF Director General Khitam Shneikat and Ministry’s Secretary-General Zaid Nawaiseh, focused on the Fund’s recurring and emergency cash assistance programs, as well as initiatives designed to enhance the economic well-being of beneficiary households, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

Shneikat underscored NAF’s commitment to supporting vulnerable families, emphasising its monthly financial aid programmes for disadvantaged groups, including persons with disabilities, widows, orphans, and the elderly. She highlighted the Unified Cash Support Programme, launched in 2019, which expanded coverage to include low-income working families.

"In addition to cash assistance, NAF operates an emergency aid programme for crisis response and a physical rehabilitation initiative that provides medical equipment to those in need. Currently, 235,000 families benefit from NAF services, with plans to extend support to an additional 15,000 families by the end of 2025," he added.

Shneikat noted that women constitute 57 per cent of total beneficiaries, reflecting the Fund’s focus on aiding vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. She also emphasised NAF’s transition to digital financial systems, ensuring secure and dignified cash transfers through e-wallets, Jordan Post payment cards, and bank accounts.

"To promote self-sufficiency, NAF invests in vocational training programs, equipping beneficiaries with skills to enter the labor market. So far, 1,119 individuals have received training across various sectors as part of the Fund’s economic empowerment strategy," she said.